Sterling sits at the intersection of Northern Virginia's suburban landscape and the Potomac River basin, with access to both the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Chesapeake watershed. RV parks near Sterling, Virginia operate in a moderate climate zone with four distinct seasons, making spring and fall particularly popular for campers. The region receives around 43 inches of annual precipitation, requiring adequate site drainage at many campgrounds.
What to Do
Trail access to historic sites: At Harpers Ferry Campground, campers can walk directly from their sites to explore significant landmarks. "There is a trail right next to the campground... 1.5 mile walk down into Harpers Ferry," notes Mikala S., adding that despite COVID-19 restrictions during her visit, the walking paths still provided excellent access to nature.
Water activities on the Potomac: Brunswick Family Campground offers direct river access for boating and swimming. Brian S. describes the Shenandoah River as "beautifully clean, clear and cool" and mentions that the "campground is so quaint and carefree you almost forget the outside world." The riverside location makes water activities immediately accessible.
Golf and recreation facilities: Burke Lake Park Campground provides numerous recreational opportunities beyond standard camping. "Located close to George Mason University, host to many high school cross country meets, this park has a beautiful lake with a 5-mile gravel walking/biking trail around the lake's perimeter," explains Sarah M., noting that while swimming isn't permitted, boating is available.
What Campers Like
Proximity to Washington DC sightseeing: Cherry Hill Park makes visiting the nation's capital convenient. "Great site near DC," reports Beth R., who appreciated the "on-site bus shuttle" that eliminated driving hassles. Jennifer H. adds, "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments."
Spacious wooded sites: Little Bennett Campground offers privacy between campsites. Ray & Terri F. describe their experience: "The sites are quiet, very spacious, level, and heavily wooded with 50A service, water and sewer hookup." They also noted "a very nice network of trails, most if not all were leashed dog friendly."
Clean facilities: Bull Run Regional Park maintains high-quality washrooms and showers. "The best review I can give is of the bathrooms. They're with staying again alone. Locking doors, individual stalls. Hot dog. Best camping showers I've ever had," reports Yvonne B., who camped there during a rainy Memorial Day weekend but still enjoyed her stay.
What You Should Know
Site layout and privacy considerations: Campgrounds vary significantly in how sites are arranged. At Lake Fairfax Campground, Erin W. notes "The sites are largely in more of a meadow and not many are very wooded. Our site, 41, was level and nicely spaced from other sites but many tent sites were not level at all. Many tents were on a full slant."
Train noise at riverside locations: Brunswick Family Campground sits adjacent to active train tracks. "There is a small family owned campground. The store is very small and it's in a travel trailer so there's not much selection there is ice and firewood for sale," explains Brian S., who adds "the CNO railroad runs pretty close it's not super loud just wanted to make you aware."
Military credentials requirement: Fort Belvoir Travel and RV Camp requires proper identification for entry. "You need military credentials. Handy to the DC Metro Transit system. Nice views of river," states Mike H., who adds a practical tip: "You really need a toad since supplies are not very close to the camping area."
Tips for Camping with Families
Educational opportunities: Prince William Forest RV Campground offers access to historical sites. "National Marine Corp Museum just around corner. DC just up the road," writes Kenneth H., who recommends that visitors "Register any visitors!" and mentions that "Prince William Forest National Park is accessible for awesome day hikes."
Kid-friendly amenities: Cherry Hill Park provides numerous activities for children. Joe R. explains, "This was a great stop to take the kids to visit the city. Easy access and well laid out sites. They have a bus stop for metro service to the city, but we took the 20 minute drive. They have a nice looking pool area, but it was too cold."
Seasonal attractions: Bull Run Regional Park offers special seasonal programs. Bridget H. shares, "The campground had a climbing wall on one afternoon. There are miles of trails and my gkids enjoyed the nature scavenger hunt. You even get a prize when you finish. They had a campfire complete with s'mores followed by hayrides."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some RV sites require additional preparation. At Harpers Ferry Campground, Thomas reports: "Good site, secure location, decent facilities with solid WiFi. Pier within walking distance. Good location, tho our site wasn't fully level, so bring plenty of leveling blocks."
Site selection strategy: At Little Bennett Campground, loop selection matters for RVers. "D Loop is for RVs, A, B, C & E are tents only," explains Ray & Terri F., who also shares connectivity information: "AT&T 5 MB/s w/o booster(1 bar), 8 MB/s with it(2 bars). There is no satellite coverage due to the heavy tree canopy."
Electric hookup specifics: Bull Run Regional Park offers various power options. Drew M. notes, "My site had a slight slope, but was easily overcome using additional blocks on the low side to get the trailer level." RVers should also be aware that at Lake Fairfax, sites have electric hookups but no water connections at individual spots, requiring campers to fill tanks before setting up.
